Challenges and opportunities for research in technical institutions in developing countries

In almost all modem human societies, research has been the basis for development, serving to invent, advance and refine knowledge, solving problems facing society locally and internationally. In order to revitalise engineering universities in developing countries, capacity building in research should be given the right priority to enable these institutions to generate knowledge, train academic staff, facilitate the teaching of new generations of talent and help transform a nation's scientific and technological base. However, engineering institutions in developing countries face many challenges in trying to fully engage in meaningful research. Low R&D investment means that meagre resources are spread so thinly that no meaningful contribution to knowledge is made. The authors seek to explain the various challenges faced by engineering research institutions in developing countries. There is a distinct need to develop partnerships with developing countries to share resources and expertise, and establish centres of excellence, thereby allowing specialisation and avoiding duplication. To reduce the flow of knowledge (brain-drain) from developing countries to developed countries, governments should consider proper retention schemes, better working conditions and adequate research support.